Pics: Ramesh Pandith
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru, Nov 26: "Enterprenuership is all about building a business of your own. Managing director of Biocon Kiran Mazumdar and founder of Atari Nolan Bushnell have led by example. It is not about organising or creating something new, it is about how you sustain it. Entreprenuers are either born or made," said chairman and managing director of Regent Technologies and chairman of Kanara Entrepreneurs (KE) Global, Dubai Ivan Fernandes

He was addressing students on 'Entrepreneur and career guidance' during the Entreprenuers' Day celebration organised by Rachana Catholic Chamber of Commerce and Industry at Milagres Church hall here on Saturday November 25.

He further said, "I was raised in a lower middle class family. I took up every challenge which came my way and was passionate. During my journey I felt that economic status does not matter if you have the passion to pursue anything in life. In 1986, the first cable network was set up in Uppinangady. It had to face a lot of hurdles to get going. I started signature verification software for a bank which took me to Dubai and I have utilized all the opportunities which came my way. I later joined a bank in Saudi Arabia and after that started new venture in mobility.

"You need a team to succeed, relentless focus on the idea, innovation and someone to evaluate the idea. All this helps you to build your career. When you fail, don't be afraid and step back, instead strive hard to reach your destination," he advised.

To a query of a student on those who inherit family business and those who have start from scratch, he said, "If you are unique and have passion, and are able to convince others about your idea, you can be an entreprenuer. Nowadays funding has become easier than before."

To a question on how to manage stress and convince others about one's idea, Ivan Fernandes said, "Any work involves stress. An entreprenuer faces stress because the world is moving at a rapid pace. Workload is heavy as deadline short. But never ignore your personal life and try to balance your professional and private life."

MLA J R Lobo said, "Entreprenuership is not an easy job and can be termed as an adventerous task. At the same time it is satisfying, and the finest area to pursue. Every entrepreneur's life story started from dot, but due to continuous effort and dedication they have become trendsetters. There is satisfaction in providing job opportunities as entrepreneurs."

"In the present scenario, entreprenuers are hindered by present rules and regulations imposed by the government, which demotivates young entreprenuers. This is a reality which you should understand," he added.

Rachana honoured the sponsors of the programme. Students of St Agnes College, St Aloysius College, St Joseph Engineering College, Roshni Nilaya, St Philomena College, Puttur and AIMIT, Beeri took part in programme.

Trinity choir invoked God's blessing and after the formal function Trintity Choir entertained the audience.

President of Rachana Staney Alvares welcomed the gathering. Secretary of Rachana Anil Vas rendered the vote of thanks, while Sam Pinto compered the programme.